Kenya, known for its rich cultural diversity and stunning landscapes, is also a country at the forefront of social change and human rights discussions. One of the most pressing issues in recent times has been the debate surrounding an anti-LGBTQ bill.
While the passage of such a bill could have various social implications, it's equally important to assess its potential economic consequences. Adverse effects would happen to the Kenyan economy if it's passed.
According to a report by Open for Business, a coalition of companies making the economic and business case for global LGBTQ+ inclusion, shows that LGBTQ+ inclusion is key ingredient for economic growth, and discrimination is costing Kenya 1.7 per cent of GDP per year. This simply means in every year, LGBTQ+ discrimination costs Kenya, about Sh130 billion to Sh18 billion this is from reduced tourism, lower productivity amongst other issues.
We cannot afford wastage of resources on duplicative bills like the Family Protection bill (Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill) that is being pushed by MP Peter Kaluma. Kenya’s priority till 2027 in such hard times should be economic sustainability, clearing its debt burden and cushioning Kenyans from the hard-economic situation.
The continuous investment of public resources, time to a harmful law when Kenyans can not afford food is wrong. The bill is full of malice, hate! It is importing hate! The bill is homophobic and aims to harm LGBTQ+ people in Kenya, this legislative process is a waste of our financial resources, duplicating laws that are already discriminatory, the bill will assault fundamental human rights as enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution.
One of Kenya's major economic drivers is its vibrant tourism industry. The country attracts travellers from around the world who come to experience its wildlife, culture, and stunning landscapes.
However, the passage of an anti-LGBTQ bill could significantly impact this sector. People identifying as LGBTQ+ would not be open to visit Kenya with such a legislature in place, this would mean drop in tourist numbers. Kenya's tourism sector has benefited from LGBTQ tourists who are drawn to its beauty. The passage of such a bill might deter LGBTQ tourists and their allies from visiting, leading to a drop-in tourist numbers.
Kenya is already enjoying a positive and growing image within the continent. Such a bill would give Kenya a negative international image: Kaluma’s anti-LGBTQ bill could lead to negative international media coverage and damage Kenya's image as a progressive and inclusive destination. This negative perception could further deter tourists.
Kenya's agriculture sector is vital for the nation's economy, providing employment and contributing significantly to exports and mama mbogas. Kaluma’s bill could indirectly affect these industries. While domestic resource mobilisation and allocation is a big problem within the country owing to issues like mismanagement, corruption, Kenya would lose out on foreign aid.
International donors, including countries and organisations, may re-evaluate their aid and trade relations with Kenya if such a bill is passed. Reduced foreign aid could impact various sectors, including agriculture, health, agriculture and even the global loans from IMF and even world bank.
Kaluma’s Bill would have negative impact on trade. Kenya exports various products to international markets. An anti-LGBTQ bill may result in trade restrictions or boycotts from countries with more progressive policies, potentially hurting Kenya's export industries, this would also have an effect on the workforce and talent drain.
LGBTQ+ individuals just like any other person within Kenya possess high-level skills and qualifications. Discriminatory legislation could lead to a "brain drain" as these individuals seek more inclusive and accepting environments abroad.
An inclusive workforce is often more innovative and productive. Discrimination may discourage and have a reduced diversity and inclusion in the workplace and workforce, potentially impacting productivity and economic growth.
While the consequences of passing an anti-LGBTQ bill in Kenya are complex and multifaceted, it's clear that the economic impacts would extend beyond national borders. Negative consequences may include a decline in tourism, reduced foreign aid, trade disruptions, and the departure of talented individuals.
As Kenya continues to grow as a nation, it faces crucial decisions about the path it wants to take, both socially and economically. Balancing these factors is a challenge that requires careful consideration and a recognition of the potential consequences involved.
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